Quartzite Countertops

What is Quartzite?

Quartzite countertops have a reputation for being of high quality due to numerous factors. Quartzite is similar to granite, marble, and soapstone, as it is a naturally extracted material from the earth. The beauty of quartzite is also a remarkable characteristic that sets it apart from other materials. It is important to note that quartzite and quartz should not be conflated. Quartz is a manufactured product created by combining quartz crystals with resins and pigments to produce a synthetic shape. When seeking premium countertops, it’s essential to make an informed purchase decision, and quartzite remains a strongly viable option.

Price Differences

Natural stone materials such as granite, marble and soapstone exhibit a range of prices depending upon their quality, origin and other factors. Typically, the cost per square foot for these materials lies in the mid to upper ranges. Among artificial stone alternatives, quartz displays a moderate cost, with quartzite being the most expensive option. This price variation is primarily due to the unique characteristics of quartzite; it is a naturally occurring stone that involves more complex extraction and fabrication processes than other materials. Its resulting superior quality and durability are valued by many consumers.

Scarcity of Quartzite

The availability of quartzite stones is limited due to the rarity of the areas in which they are quarried, resulting in a higher cost. In comparison, granite is relatively more cost-effective, as there are numerous quarries in countries like India and Brazil.

Quarrying Limitations

The procurement of quartzite remains a major challenge for the natural stone industry, attributable to its scarcity and arduous extraction process. As with other stone materials, quartzite requires slab cutting from larger blocks and quarry extraction. Nevertheless, the quarrying of quartzite is substantially more complex than that of granite and other natural stone types. Indeed, quartzite is a fragmented variety of stone that presents considerable difficulty in its extraction. The acquisition of sizable and usable quartzite blocks is a daunting task, with smaller and less viable sections typically wasted. In comparison to other natural stone extractions, the yield from quartzite quarrying is significantly lower.

Time Consuming

Regarding natural stone materials, quartzite is known for its durability and abrasiveness which requires a more meticulous and time-consuming process to quarry, cut, polish, and fashion it into good quality slabs. The process of removing, cutting, and polishing requires special tools such as diamond blades, wires, and polishing heads, which results in a higher material expense. Despite utilizing specialized machinery, quartzite requires considerable labor-intensive production and has to be completed gradually. Smoothing out the edges of quartzite also needs a longer polishing process that is more complex compared to granite and other natural stone products.

High Demand

The demand for quartzite is increasing due to its natural beauty, making it a highly sought after material for homeowners, interior designers, and architects worldwide. As a result of this high demand, supplies are expected to be limited with a corresponding increase in value and cost to consumers.

For those interested in incorporating quartzite into their home projects, we invite you to complete our online contact form for a prompt response from one of our specialists. We are dedicated to providing you with the necessary information to experience the elegant aesthetic of quartzite in your home.

Quartzite Countertops Selection

Around the World

Let's Start a Project

Tel: 613-745-7777

M: Info@stonealliance.ca

A: 1300 Humber Place

Ottawa, Ontario, K1B 3W3